D&G

For their Spring 2002 D&G collection, Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce exchanged the world of techno dance clubsone of their recurring points of referencefor that of ballet companies, replete with satin toe shoes and a barre.

Like so many A Chorus Line hopefuls, models swished into the curvy show space clad in bunched and tightly layered tops, skirts, jackets and leggings, often wound up with thick satin ribbons and chiffon streamers. Giddy tutus morphed into full tiered skirts, worn with cheeky slogan T-shirts and snuggly wrapped cardigan sweaters. Washed-out tones of gray, nude and khaki played off neon-green blasts.

As with most D&G shows, the piled-on look is meant to ignite flash fires of lust among teenage fashion fanatics. The good news is that, taken piece by piece, the collection is full of surprisingly wearable clothes.